Work In the Frustration

To work is to struggle. Yes, no matter how much we love our careers, vocations, or temporary employments, we are bound to meet a certain level of frustration. I have been met with my share recently (honestly, more than recently). But in some ways, this frustration is a sign of something better.

We become frustrated when we care. Sometimes, the lack of frustration is actually a greater threat, for it shows we stopped being invested or worse yet, that our job is too small for our gifts. When we find ourselves stressed or eager to change our current work environment, it might be because we actually are doing something BIG. We might find ourselves in something important – something that needs changed. The frustration is a sign of life, a sign of something still beating within the chest of a challenge.

Persevere. Let the frustration come, but listen to it. What might it be telling you? When we simply brood, no one wins – least of all yourself. This is the sort of thing that leads to early deaths and deferred dreams. However, when we work within the tension, we are fully engaged. Looking for a “better way” leads to a better system, a better environment, and a better culture. Just like anything, settling leads to some form of death. Frustration is a symptom of something larger and if you allow it to speak, it will direct you to a better way.

Today, listen to your frustration. May you lead it to a better way.